Injectable Fillers

Hyaluronic acid based injectable fillers have revolutionized plastic surgery in recent years. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body, so allergic reactions with hyaluronic acid fillers are rare. Fillers vary in particle size for three basic applications. Larger size particles are longer lasting and are used for volumizing the face, especially the cheeks. These include Voluma and Restylane Lyft (Perlane). They may last one to two years. Medium sized particle fillers are used for wrinkle lines to the cheeks and mouth. These include Restylane and Juvederm Ultra Plus. Medium sized particle fillers may last six months to one year. Small sized particle fillers are used for lip augmentation.  They include Restylane silk and Juvederm Ultra. Small sized particle fillers last six to nine months.

Hyaluronic acid fillers are placed in a simple office visit lasting twenty minutes to a half hour. Because of  the simplicity of use and their natural appearance, fillers have virtually replaced the need for facial implants, which require surgery and anesthesia, do not age with the patient, and usually require removal after a period of time. On the other hand, repeat injections are needed over time because fillers have a limited lifespan.